[2026] Iconic musical numbers: from the latest releases to timeless classics!

Music of the nightAndrew Lloyd Webber

Norm Lewis & Sierra Boggess Perform The Music of the Night | The Phantom of the Opera

This work beautifully and solemnly portrays the sorrow of the Phantom who lurks deep beneath the opera house and the songstress Christine.

Written as a novel by the French author Gaston Leroux in 1909, the original story has inspired numerous musicals and films.

This song is the most famous piece from The Phantom of the Opera, expressing the Phantom’s fervent feelings for Christine.

The charm of musical theatre—its speech-like, narrative singing—can be fully savored in this piece!

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HATSUMI

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Only to meNiizuma Seiko

Only for me (from “Elisabeth”)

It’s the main number from the musical Elisabeth and a cry from Empress Elisabeth’s soul.

Many women likely see themselves in her as she battles the old order of the imperial court.

The song “Only Me” (Watashi Dake ni) carries the wish to live true to oneself.

Where is love?Oliver

Oliver! – Where Is Love

This song, sung in the musical Oliver! based on a British novel, features the young Oliver asking people, “Where is love?” The child actor’s beautiful voice, filled with emotion and tinged with sorrow and sadness, is truly moving.

Losing My MindStephen Sondheim

Follies | ‘Losing My Mind’ performed by Imelda Staunton | National Theatre Live

A heart-stirring ballad born from the 1971 musical Follies.

Showcasing Stephen Sondheim’s genius for lyrics and composition, this work is a masterclass in emotional expression, portraying obsession with a past lover and profound loneliness.

While grounded in the traditional torch song form, Sondheim’s signature complex harmonies and rhythms blend exquisitely, resonating deep within the listener.

In the original production, it was performed by Dorothy Collins in the role of Sally, captivating audiences.

Since then, it has been covered by numerous artists; notably, Liza Minnelli’s 1989 version reached No.

6 on the UK charts, earning widespread acclaim.

With its unforgettable, delicate emotional nuance and beautiful melody, this song offers empathy and comfort to those bearing emotional scars or experiencing the ache of unrequited love.

Singin’ in the RainGene Kelly

Singin’ in the Rain (Singin’ in the Rain, theme song)

Many of you have probably heard this extremely famous intro and first verse.

There are numerous versions of this historic classic composed by the prestigious musical studio MGM, and the rendition in which Gene Kelly sings it while tap dancing in the film “Singin’ in the Rain” is still loved worldwide.

In Japan, you’re almost certain to hear it at least once a year on TV or radio.

Try listening to it side by side with Kyu Sakamoto’s historic Japanese classic “Ue o Muite Arukou” (“Sukiyaki”) and see what similarities and differences you can pick up!

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Masuda Bunka

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A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

A Whole New World | ALADDIN on Broadway (Official Video)

A signature song from Disney’s Aladdin, featuring Aladdin and Jasmine’s beautiful duet on a magic carpet.

Based on One Thousand and One Nights, it was adapted into an animated film by Disney in 1992 and later produced by the Shiki Theatre Company and as a live-action film.

It’s a romantic scene where two people of different social standing fall in love, and Aladdin invites Princess Jasmine to see the world beyond the palace.

For Jasmine, it’s truly a whole new world she’s never known.

And for Aladdin, the world he sees with the one he loves is entirely different from before.

It’s a number that enchants with a beautiful harmony overflowing with their love and dreams.

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SAKI

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You Can’t Stop the BeatHairspray National Tour 2010

You Can’t Stop the Beat – Hairspray National Tour 2010

This is the ultimate dance music that screams “This is the USA!”—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that gets everyone hyped.

“You Can’t Stop the Beat” is featured in the acclaimed musical Hairspray, which vacuum-seals the glamorous worldview of America’s rock ’n’ roll golden age.

With its setting and title evoking Grease, this irresistibly bright and joyful coming-of-age song isn’t just about carefree optimism; it shines with the spirit of people who choose to enjoy life despite everything, fully aware of the social backdrop and the struggles of youth.

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Masuda Bunka

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